Diaspora Insurance in Birmingham specialises in designing and delivering insurance products and risk management solutions for foreign Africans living abroad, in the UK, EU, North America, and Canada. The flagship service, Diaspora Funeral Cash Plan, is a groundbreaking cover offering up to £/$20,000 in immediate cash pay-out to support dignified send-offs for expatriates and their families. This unique offering provides worldwide coverage with guaranteed acceptance, no mandatory medicals, and 24/7 accessibility. Diaspora Insurance is committed to protecting individuals, families, and communities with bespoke and innovative insurance solutions tailored to their needs.
Role Description
The Accountant (UK) is responsible for supporting the Head Office finance function through accurate financial reporting, accounting, and compliance with UK GAAP and FRS 102 requirements. The role works closely with external accountants and the South Africa office to ensure timely month‑end close processes, accurate financial records, group reporting, and high‑quality financial analysis to support business decision making.
Key Responsibilities
* Financial Reporting and Accounting
o Assist with the preparation of financial statements in compliance with UK GAAP and FRS 102.
o Support month‑end and year‑end close processes, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and timely reporting.
o Prepare general ledger journals in Sage Intacct for non‑cash transactions, including depreciation, accruals, provisions, prepayments, and deferred tax adjustments.
o Perform reconciliations for bank accounts, balance sheet accounts, intercompany balances, and major vendor accounts, investigating and resolving discrepancies where necessary.
o Maintain accurate accounting records, including fixed asset registers and supporting schedules.
o Ensure compliance with accrual accounting principles and internal financial controls.
* Group Reporting and Consolidation
o Prepare group consolidation reports and ensure completeness and accuracy of financial data submitted by entities.
o Review and process UK GAAP adjustments to align financial information for non‑UK entities and ensure consistency in accounting treatment and reporting standards.
o Maintain and update the entity group structure and chart within the accounting system.
o Support intercompany reconciliations and elimination processes during group consolidation.
* Budgeting, Forecasting and Financial Analysis
o Support the preparation of annual budgets and periodic financial forecasts.
o Perform variance analysis on profit and loss statements and provide explanations for significant movements.
o Prepare ad‑hoc financial reports, analysis, and management information to support operational and strategic decision‑making.
o Assist management with financial insights and recommendations based on data analysis.
* Compliance and External Liaison
o Ensure compliance with relevant accounting standards, statutory requirements, and internal finance policies.
o Support internal and external audit processes by preparing schedules, reconciliations, and supporting documentation.
o Liaise with external accountants, auditors, and relevant stakeholders where required.
* Systems and Process Improvement
o Support system enhancements and the effective utilisation of Sage Intacct.
o Review finance processes and recommend improvements to strengthen internal controls, efficiency, and reporting accuracy.
o Assist in implementing process automation and standardisation initiatives where applicable.
Minimum Qualifications
* Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
* Professional accounting qualification or progress towards qualification (e.g., ACCA, CIMA, ACA, SAICA or equivalent) will be advantageous.
Minimum Experience
* Minimum of 4–6 years’ experience in accounting or financial reporting roles.
* Experience working with UK GAAP and FRS 102 reporting standards is essential.
* Experience in group reporting and financial consolidations.
* Experience working with ERP/accounting systems, preferably Sage Intacct.
* Experience working within multinational or group company structures will be advantageous.
Knowledge and Skills
* Strong understanding of UK GAAP, FRS 102, and accrual accounting principles.
* Knowledge of group consolidation and intercompany accounting processes.
* Advanced Microsoft Excel and financial analysis skills.
* Strong attention to detail and high levels of accuracy.
* Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and reporting skills.
* Good communication and stakeholder management skills.
* Ability to manage deadlines and work under pressure.
* Strong organisational and time management skills.
* Ability to work independently and collaboratively across international teams.
Competencies
* Accountability and integrity
* Analytical thinking
* Planning and organising
* Problem solving and decision making
* Collaboration and teamwork
* Adaptability and continuous improvement
* Communication and interpersonal effectiveness
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